Videonystagmography (VNG) testing

Aurora Health Care’s team of experienced audiologists can help you get to the root cause of any hearing or balance problems through cutting-edge testing, such as a videonystagmography (VNG).

VNG testing helps uncover the cause of various balance-affecting conditions by detecting inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which relays information about motion and position to the brain.

Understanding videonystagmography testing

A VNG test helps assess the functionality of the vestibular system, which is vital for balance and spatial orientation. The vestibular system that plays a pivotal role in maintaining balance by detecting head movement changes and transmitting signals to the brain.

A VNG test typically takes an hour to complete. During a VNG test, video goggles equipped with infrared cameras are used to record and analyze eye movements Various testing components, such as caloric testing, ocular-motor testing and positional testing are used.

• Positional testing: Patients are placed in various positions to provoke specific eye movements, helping to identify abnormalities related to changes in head position.
• Ocular-motor testing: This evaluates eye movements in response to visual stimuli, tracking the eyes' ability to focus and move accurately.
• Caloric testing: This involves the introduction of warm and cool air or water into the ear canal to stimulate the inner ear and assess its responsiveness.

Videonystagmography for inner ear balance

VNG is highly effective in testing inner ear balance due to its capability to capture and analyze eye movements that may be associated with inner ear function, such as rapid movements.

Caloric testing within VNG aids in diagnosing conditions like benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), the most common cause of vertigo in adults.

Additionally, VNG testing helps differentiate between central and peripheral vestibular disorders, enabling accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Why you would need a videonystagmography test

If you experience symptoms like dizziness or vertigo, your doctor may recommend a videonystagmography test.

Other reasons VNG testing may be recommended by your provider:

• Meniere's disease
• Inflammation of the vestibular nerve in the inner ear
• Involuntary eye movements, known as nystagmus

Understanding your specific symptoms and discussing them with your doctor helps determine the appropriateness of a VNG test for your situation.

How to prepare for a VNG test

Before undergoing a VNG test, discuss medications, including antibiotics, antidepressants, allergy medications, narcotics or sedatives, with your provider. These medications can influence the test results.

Other tips for accurate results include:

• Avoid putting on makeup – especially mascara
• Thoroughly clean your ears
• Don't wear contact lenses – bring glasses or contact solution if needed
• Avoid solid foods for two hours before the test
• Don't have any caffeine or alcohol before testing

Interpreting videonystagmography results

Careful analysis by your doctor of recorded eye movements during different test phases is crucial for interpreting VNG results.

A VNG can assist in diagnosing inner ear disorders such as:

• Acoustic neuroma
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)
• Labyrinthitis
• Meniere's disease
• Vestibular neuritis

Videonystagmography testing at Aurora Health Care

If you have been referred to an audiologist for a VNG test or have been considering scheduling one, Aurora Health Care is here for you. Our audiologist experts can guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your comfort and understanding of your results and how to manage your condition after diagnosis.